News Summary
The Players at the Barker Playhouse in Providence, R.I., are staging ‘You on the Moors Now,’ a comedy that reinterprets classic literary heroines with humor and contemporary themes. The play, featuring a diverse cast portraying iconic characters from Austen, Alcott, and the Brontë sisters, runs from May 9th through May 18th. It explores themes of empowerment and sisterhood as these characters navigate societal pressures, offering a fresh perspective on beloved stories while appealing to modern audiences.
Providence, R.I. – “You on the Moors Now” Delights Audiences with a Modern Twist on Literary Heroines
The Players at the Barker Playhouse in Providence, R.I., are currently staging the comedy “You on the Moors Now,” a refreshing retelling of classic literary heroines that brings humor and contemporary sensibilities to the stage. The production runs from May 9th through May 18th and features a diverse cast of talent portraying iconic female characters originally created by renowned authors such as Jane Austen, Louisa May Alcott, and the Brontë sisters.
Julia Curtin plays River Sister, accompanied by Emma Dunlop as Jane Eyre, Tali Russel as Jo March, Steph Rodger as Elizabeth Bennet, and Rose Trammell as Cathy Linton. Together, these actresses portray an ensemble of beloved heroines who challenge patriarchal structures while exploring themes of individuality and empowerment.
The narrative of the play focuses on how these independent-minded women, recognizable from classics like “Pride and Prejudice,” “Little Women,” “Jane Eyre,” and “Wuthering Heights,” navigate the constraints of their societies. In a comedic twist, the characters flee societal pressures and avoid marriage proposals by retreating to the moors, embarking on an adventure that highlights their strength and sisterhood.
Along with the strong female leads, male characters include Mr. Darcy, Laurie Laurence, Mr. Rochester, and Heathcliff, providing comedic dimensions and further exploring the dynamics of complicated relationships. The interplay of these characters is accentuated by clever dialogue and humorous situations that resonate with modern audiences, reminiscent of a Saturday Night Live skit.
The production is directed by Morgan Salpietro, who has received acclaim for her stylish and accurate direction of the show. The director’s insightful approach breathes fresh life into the classic characters, allowing both ensemble cohesion and individual talents to shine. The chemistry among the cast members has been described as impressive, contributing to the overall success of the performance.
Costumes designed by Liv Hill authentically reflect the historical time periods of the characters, providing viewers with a visual connection to the stories these heroines originate from. The production captures not just the essence of the characters but also the underlying messages about women’s roles in society.
Despite some moments in the script that may require fine-tuning, the overall experience remains entertaining and engaging. Audience familiarity with the source material may enhance the enjoyment, although prior knowledge is not strictly necessary to appreciate the humor and theme of the play, making it accessible to a wide range of viewers.
For those interested in attending, tickets and additional information about “You on the Moors Now” can be acquired through the PlayersRI website or by calling 401-273-0590. The Barker Playhouse is situated at 400 Benefit Street in Providence, offering a great opportunity to experience a unique blend of comedy and classic literature.
This play not only revives beloved characters but also stitches together themes of empowerment, sisterhood, and the navigation of modern societal challenges, providing a thoughtful yet entertaining experience for all who attend.
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HERE Resources
You On The Moors Now Premieres at Providence’s Barker Playhouse
Additional Resources
- Independent RI
- Google Search: You on the Moors Now
- Broadway World
- Wikipedia: Sisterhood
- Turn to 10
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Feminism
- Warwick Online
- Google News: Women’s Empowerment
- Edge Media Network
